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Starting a School Band in a Primary School? The Fundamentals Explained

Starting a School Band in a Primary School? The Fundamentals Explained

Overview

This course is being presented by the Association of NSW Regional conservatoriums in partnership with the NSW Teachers Federation - Centre for Professional Learning CPL).

This is a one-day course, comprising organisational, logistical and practical elements, with hands-on instrumental activities and role play designed to simulate the beginner band experience. Aspects that will be covered include:

selection and sourcing of resources, including instruments, music and support materials

recruitment, including assessment of student suitability for a balanced and viable ensemble

aligning instrumental allocation with differentiated learning needs

aligning repertoire with community and cultural settings

aligning instrumental allocation with support of participation and learning for students with disability

the band as a format for summative assessment and direct feedback on student achievement

allocation and maintenance of instruments

beginner band timelines and satisfying school, student and family expectations

basic band conducting gestures

Accreditation

Completing a Starting a School Band in a Primary School? The Fundamentals Explained course will contribute 5 hours of NESA Registered PD addressing: 1.1.2, 1.5.2, 2.1.2, 3.1.2, 3.5.2, 6.3.2 from the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers towards maintaining Proficient Teacher Accreditation in NSW.

Target Participants

Year 3 – 6 teachers who wish to develop the practical and organisational skills required to start a school mixed - instrumental ensemble (band) in a primary school.

Delivery

The course will begin by explaining and discussing the principles, practicalities and purpose of school bands, and their relevance to the curriculum. It will explore the logistical considerations and resources needed to outfit and organise a balanced ensemble. Small group and and plenary sessions will discuss the logistics and resourcing requirements of setting up a band, demonstrate basic conducting principles and gestures, outline ensemble learning dynamics, and identify differentiated learning opportunities within the instrumental ensemble environment.